🛩️ FPV Basics

Everything you need to understand First Person View drones — from Tiny Whoops to X-Class

What is FPV?

FPV (First Person View) is a method of piloting a drone where you see exactly what the drone's camera sees in real-time through video goggles. It's like sitting in the cockpit of a tiny aircraft. Unlike DJI Mavic-style drones that fly themselves with GPS, FPV drones are fully manual — the pilot has complete control.

How FPV Works

Video Signal Chain

Camera → VTX (Video Transmitter) → RF Signal → VRX (in Goggles) → Display

Control Signal Chain

Radio Transmitter → RF Signal → Receiver → Flight Controller → ESCs → Motors

Drone Sizes — Complete Guide

FPV drones come in many sizes. Each is designed for different purposes. Here's the complete breakdown:

🏠 Tiny Whoop (65-75mm)

Best for: Indoor flying, rainy day practice, absolute beginners. Ducted prop guards make them safe to fly around people and furniture. The cheapest way into real FPV.

• 65mm: Classic indoor Whoop size — most agile, tightest spaces
• 75mm: Slightly larger — can handle light outdoor wind
• Video: Analog (cheapest), some with HDZero or Walksnail
• Top models: BetaFPV Air65, Happymodel Mobula6, NewBeeDrone AcroBee

🎬 Cinewhoop (2-3")

Best for: Smooth cinematic shots near people, indoor real estate tours, event filming. Ducted props provide safety for close-proximity flying. Under 250g options available for regulatory advantages.

• Video: DJI O3/O4 for HD recording, or GoPro mount
• Flight style: Slow, smooth, stable — NOT for acrobatics
• Top models: GEPRC CineLog 35, BetaFPV Pavo 35, FlyLens 85

🌲 Micro Freestyle (3-3.5")

Best for: Backyard flying, parks, tighter spaces where 5-inch is too big. Lighter and quieter than 5-inch, can fly in more locations without disturbing neighbors.

• Advantage: Many countries don't require registration under 250g
• Top models: GEPRC Smart 35, Flywoo Explorer LR, AxisFlying Manta 3.5

⚡ 5-Inch (Standard)

Best for: Freestyle, racing, general purpose. The most popular size in FPV. Best balance of power, agility, and parts availability. If you're unsure what to get, start here.

• 2026 Standard: 6S battery, 2207 motors, Betaflight, ELRS, DJI O4 Pro
• Top BNF: GEPRC Vapor ($300-400), iFlight Nazgul ($280), Diatone Roma F5 ($320)
• Build cost: $470-550 DIY with DJI O4

🚀 6-7 Inch (Long Range)

Best for: Exploring mountains, coastlines, rivers, and areas you can't reach on foot. Efficiency over agility — these fly like a cruiser, not a sports car.

• Radio: 900MHz ELRS for maximum penetration
• GPS: Mandatory for rescue mode and telemetry
• Battery: Li-Ion packs (18650/21700) for 20+ min flights
• Top models: GEPRC Crocodile 7, Flywoo Explorer LR 4", iFlight Chimera 7

🎬 Cinelifter (8-10")

Best for: Professional film and TV production. Carries real cinema cameras for Hollywood-grade aerial footage. Used in major productions by pilots like JohnnyFPV and Gab707.

• Purpose-built: Vibration-isolated camera mounts
• Top models: Shendrones Squirt, ImpulseRC Apex, custom builds

🏁 X-Class / Beast (10"+)

Best for: Exhibition racing and speed records. These monsters are designed for one thing: going fast. The DRL (Drone Racing League) uses X-class drones in their professional races.

• 
  Warning: Extremely dangerous — requires large, open flying fields
• Not for beginners: Requires expert piloting skills

Size Comparison Summary

Flying Styles

• Freestyle: Flips, rolls, gaps, proximity — creative expression. Most popular.
• Racing: Gates, speed, competition. DRL/MultiGP leagues.
• Cinematic: Smooth, controlled footage for film/TV/real estate.
• Long Range: Exploration. 10-30km flights over mountains/coast.
• Tiny Whoop: Indoor fun. Cheapest real FPV experience.

Evolution Timeline

Choosing Your First Drone

Budget Options

Next: Components →